The redevelopment of New Street station has reached another major landmark after demolition work to open up the wide atrium finished.

More than 6,000 tonnes of concrete were removed by a giant, purpose-built demolition machine to create space for the atrium and roof which now floods the station with daylight.

Following completion of this phase, new structures will be hung from the atrium steelwork and the building, which includes the Grand Central shopping centre and new John Lewis store, will be fitted out ready for launch in September.

Network Rail project director Chris Montgomery said: "The completion of this work marks a huge milestone for the project.

"Building the atrium roof and removing such a large amount of concrete from the centre of the building was a huge feat of engineering."

The New Street development has already created 1,300 construction jobs for city residents, including 250 who were previously unemployed and 100 apprentices.

City council cabinet member for development and transport Tahir Ali said: "We have already started a recruitment drive through the Birmingham Growth Alliance Partnership, which aims to showcase the skills of the city's jobseekers while reflecting Birmingham's diverse community."